"When I first started to play pool about three years ago I started using ob1 type shafts and could draw the ball much better with those shafts but now as my game has improved over the years there is almost no differance in my draw stroke with one of the high end shafts and my stock run of the mill McDermott shaft. Could it be that the ob1 type shafts are more forgiving to a poor stroke?"
Sorry to bring up an old thread, but I'm looking for a new cue, and this was relevant to me....
I have thought about this and now think what was posted (above) is the best answer AND is consistent with all the various opinions, here is why I think so:
1. To a pro (or to a machine) with a great stroke, there will be almost no difference between the shafts.
2. A total beginner will get no spin with any shaft, so again no difference.
3. But, the medium-level player WILL feel l a certain shaft is giving him more spin, NOT because it actually gives more spin than is possible with a regular shaft, but because it is more forgiving of his poor stroke!
disclaimer, I an NOT even close to an expert in pool, but I know alot more about tennis racquets. Same principals apply. Federer can get abundant topspin with any racquet. A beginner cant get topspin with any racquet. However if you hand the mid level player a racquet that is designed to get more topspin, it will definately be easier for that player to find some topspin without having a good stroke.
(final note, do pro tennis players ever use racquets that "help" them get spin? Never, they dont need to or want to.)